WGU’s Business Analytics Degrees 

WGU offers several accredited, fully online degree programs that help students gain the analytical, strategic, and technical skills associated with business analytics. These include business management, data analytics, and MBA options that support professionals new to the career field and those looking to advance. Each degree program is designed to build foundational competencies, knowledge in data-driven decision-making, and practical skills.

B.S. Business Management

A business management bachelor’s degree builds core business competencies. Students study operations, marketing, finance, data-informed decision-making, and organizational leadership and how to apply analytical reasoning to everyday business challenges. Graduates often apply for roles such as operations manager, financial analyst, marketing manager, and business analyst—positions where strong analytical reasoning supports business decisions. 

B.S. Data Analytics

For those seeking a more technical path, an online bachelor’s degree in data analytics provides foundational knowledge needed to work with data across industries, including IT, healthcare, and business. Because many business analytics roles overlap with data responsibilities, this degree offers a strong blend of statistical methods, data visualization, and applied analytical practices that are relevant to a wide range of businesses.

M.S. Data Analytics 

For students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree, a master's degree in data analytics is the next step toward more advanced roles like senior business analyst and analytics manager. Coursework focuses on advanced data acquisition, predictive modeling, forecasting, and reporting, which are essential for guiding strategic decisions at the organizational level. Master’s degrees with a focus on data science, data engineering, and decision-process engineering are alternative specializations. 

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

While a business analytics degree is more data-focused, an MBA provides a broader leadership perspective with an emphasis on data-driven decision making, strategic thinking, and organizational leadership. It’s widely considered a strong pathway for advancing into management positions, with analytic and leadership focused coursework.

Key Skills Developed in Business Analytics Programs 

Business analytics involves descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive analytics methods, which can be used to inform data-driven decisions, manage risk, provide insight into target markets, and improve operational efficiencies. Students interested in learning business analytics can pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees that cover these topics, such as business management or data analytics.

Key business analytics skills typically include:

• Data analysis: Learning how to gather and interpret data to uncover patterns and trends.
• Predictive analytics: Using statistical models and forecasting techniques to estimate future outcomes, assess risk, and plan for the future, including budgeting and demand prediction. 
• Descriptive analytics: Summarizing past data to help spot patterns or areas for improvement.
• Prescriptive analytics: Using data and modeling techniques to recommend the best actions or strategies for achieving desired outcomes.
• Business intelligence: Using tools and dashboards to visualize data, track key metrics, and turn complex information into actionable insights. 
• Ethical data: Responsible handling of data, privacy protection, and taking into consideration the ethical impact of data application. 

Students also develop analytics skills they can apply across industries. This includes forecasting trends, conducting risk analysis, and using statistical software tools to interpret complex data. Together, these business analytics skills help students apply real-world analytics to practical workplace situations. 

Essential Tools and Technologies for Business Analytics 

Proficiency with analytics technology is essential for success in business analytics roles. While analytics tools vary by program and industry, the following represent some of the most commonly used by business analysts today:

• Structured Query Language (SQL): A foundational language for creating queries that search, modify, and create new databases, streamlining data management, and efficient data manipulation.
• Python: A versatile programming language used for scripting, such as working with functions and loops, automation, and implementing code with packages, modules, and libraries.
• Power BI: A business intelligence tool that transforms raw data into visuals reports and interactive dashboards. 
• SAS: A statistical software used to manage, analyze, and visualize large data sets. 
• QlikView: A business intelligence platform that uses an in-platform associative engine for exploring data and collaborative decision-making. 
• Google Analytics: A free web analytics service used to track and report website traffic and user behavior. 
• Tableau: Another visual analytics platform for converting raw data into easily understandable visualizations, such as charts. 
• R: A statistical programming language used to develop data models, run statistical tests, and visualize results. 
• KNIME: An open-source analytics platform that lets users build visual workflows without extensive coding knowledge. 

By building competency with these tools, students gain technical fluency plus practical experience so they are more prepared for real-world applications in the workforce. 

Typical Coursework and Program Structure 

Accredited online business analytics programs typically combine foundational business education with hands-on training in core topics like statistical analysis, data mining, machine learning, data visualization, business strategy, and ethics. While specific courses vary by degree program, these courses may be included in data analytics, business management, and supply chain degree programs.

Capstone projects represent the culmination of learning acquired, requiring that students apply what they learn to a real-world situation. This can often take the format of a case study, in which a solution is proposed to solve an actual business issue. 

In addition to coursework and capstone projects, students often engage in practical learning experience. This can include completing exercises that use real data sets or applying statistical software to a simulated business situation. 

While exact program structure varies by degree, a data analytics or business analytics curriculum may begin with foundational coursework in an area such as applied probability and statistics, then build up on that knowledge with courses like quantitative analysis, strategic thinking, or data analytics applications. This progressive approach is designed to build upon the knowledge gained in earlier coursework for a more thorough understanding. 

How to Choose the Right Online Business Analytics Degree 

Selecting the right online business degree or analytics program starts with understanding how well the program aligns with your needs and goals. Taking time to compare options can help you find the best online business analytics program for your needs. 

One of the most important factors to consider is accreditation, which ensures the program meets recognized academic standards. From there, review the curriculum to see whether it covers essential analytics topics such as data analysis, predictive modeling, and business intelligence.

Other key factors to consider when choosing a degree include:

• Technology and tools. Look for programs that incorporate analytics platforms, relevant software, and hands-on or experiential learning.
• Cost and financial aid. Compare tuition models, employer tuition benefits, scholarships, and options for minimizing out-of-pocket costs. 
• Faculty expertise. Review instructors to ensure they have industry experience and that other faculty support is available. 
• Career support. Consider whether resources are available such as career services, networking, résumé guidance, and job placement. 
• Program flexibility. Think about your available time, especially if you’re balancing work or family responsibilities. 

Creating a side-by-side comparison of your top personal priorities—such as cost, program length, and course delivery format—can help you clarify the right program for you. For working adults, choosing a degree often comes down to pacing and support. Look for programs that offer features like 24/7 coursework availability, competency-based learning, and faculty support—all features that make it easier to complete a degree while managing professional and personal commitments. 

Career Opportunities and Industry Demand 

Business and analytics roles like business analyst, data analyst, data scientist, analytics manager continue to grow as organizations in every sector rely on data to guide planning, operations, and long-term strategy. These roles are ideal for those with strong analytical, technical, and business communication skills.  

Ways companies use business intelligence include understanding consumer behavior, optimizing day-to-day operations, and making data-based decisions about future growth. For example, a company may analyze purchasing patterns or staffing needs to improve efficiency and deliver a better customer experience. This reliance on data-driven insights helps field the demand for business and analytics professionals across industries. 

Future Trends in Business Analytics Education and Careers 

As business analytics continues to evolve, the field is being shaped by rapid advancements in technology, employer expectations, and new areas of opportunity. Major shifts such as the integration of AI and machine learning, greater emphasis on data security and ethics, and increased use of real-time analytics are redefining how organizations gather, analyze, and use information. 

Predictive analytics, for example, uses historical data to anticipate future outcomes, making it a valuable cog in the wheel for many analytics roles. To keep pace, many business and analytics programs are updating curriculum to include applied learning and emerging technology to reflect the future of analytics. Staying current with trends in business analytics helps prepare learners for a constantly evolving job market. 

Ready to take the next step in your analytics career? WGU’s flexible, accredited online degree programs can help you build strong analytical and business-focused skills—on your schedule. With competency-based learning and industry-relevant coursework, you can move at your own pace while gaining the tools employers value in data-driven roles. Explore WGU’s degree options to find the path that best supports your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is an accredited online business analytics degree? 

An accredited online business analytics degree is a recognized program delivered entirely online that teaches students the skills to analyze data and make strategic business decisions. 

Who should consider enrolling in an online business analytics program? 

Individuals interested in leveraging data to solve business challenges—especially those with backgrounds in business, statistics, or technology—should consider an online business analytics program. 

What are the common admission requirements? 

Applicants must typically possess a high school diploma or its equivalent, or an undergraduate degree if applying to a graduate program.

How long does it take to complete an online business analytics degree? 

The average time to complete a bachelor's degree at WGU is 24 months, although exact timing can vary depending on the program’s structure and the student’s pacing. 

Are online business analytics degrees respected by employers? 

As long as the program is accredited, online business analytics degrees are generally respected by employers, with curricula and faculty often matching those of traditional on-campus offerings.